The Office of the Secretary to the Government of Niger State (SSG) has successfully hosted a grand reception in honor of the Head of Service (HOS), Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Idris. He was appointed to this prestigious position last year by the Farmer Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago.
The reception celebrated the outstanding contributions and exemplary leadership of Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Idris, a seasoned administrator and former Permanent Secretary, General Services, in the SSG’s Office. Since his appointment, he has spearheaded transformative reforms in the state’s civil service, fostering efficiency, accountability, and innovation in line with the vision of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago.
In his remarks,the Secretary to the Government of Niger State (SSG), Alhaji Abubakar Usman, commended the Head of Service for his unwavering dedication and commitment to the development of the state. Represented by Dr. Mohammed Makusidi, Permanent Secretary, General Services, SSG’s Office, he described the HOS as a true embodiment of professionalism and integrity, whose leadership has redefined the civil service and set a new standard for excellence.
The SSG also expressed gratitude to Farmer Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago for his visionary leadership and for appointing a capable and experienced administrator to lead the state’s civil service. He reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting the civil service as a critical driver of sustainable development and good governance.
In his response, the Head of Service, Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Idris, extended his sincere gratitude to Farmer Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago for the trust and confidence placed in him. He emphasized that the role of the Head of Service is not just a position but a call to serve the good people of Niger State. He reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the values of integrity, diligence, and excellence in the discharge of his duties.
He also expressed appreciation to the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, for organizing the reception and for his unwavering support and guidance. According to the HOS:
“Your leadership and mentorship have been a source of inspiration to me and many others in the civil service”he stated.
He reiterated the crucial role of the civil service as the engine room of government, playing a vital role in implementing policies and programs that impact the lives of the people. He assured that moving forward, he remained committed to driving reforms that will enhance efficiency, promote transparency, and ensure that the civil service remained a cornerstone of good governance in the state.
During the event, Abubakar Sadiq Idris announced an ambitious initiative by the Office of the Head of Service aimed at empowering civil servants approaching retirement. He explained that the entrepreneurship program will offer a comprehensive one-year preparatory course in entrepreneurship for civil servants nearing the end of their careers.
The initiative seek to facilitate a smooth transition from public service to private enterprise, ensuring financial stability and continued productivity post-retirement.
The event was attended by permanent secretaries and top government officials. It featured goodwill messages and the presentation of a commemorative plaque to the Head of Service in recognition of his remarkable achievements.